The long-anticipated Brightline West, a game-changing transportation solution, officially broke ground on this past Spring. The ambitious project has been dubbed the nation's first true high-speed rail system, seamlessly connecting a station in Apple Valley, located east of Los Angeles, to Las Vegas along Interstate 15. With a swift cruising speed of 186 miles per hour, passengers can anticipate completing the 218-mile trip in just 85 minutes, cutting travel time in half compared to driving. 

The collaboration between Brightline West and the High-Speed Rail Labor Coalition represents a significant step forward in meeting the growing demand for high-speed rail in the United States and offering an alternative for high-congestion traffic and fuel emissions.

Powered by one of the greenest power providers in the U.S., most power will come from emission-free sources, with plans to pursue programs that will guarantee 100% emission-free power by or before 2045. Brightline is also designing the pathway with wildlife in mind. Certain dedicated crossings will provide a sustainable and safe path for wildlife over the existing northbound and southbound highway lanes.

To ensure seamless connectivity between Apple Valley and the greater Los Angeles area, Brightline West plans to extend the rail line to a Metrolink station in Rancho Cucamonga. This integration will enable passengers to effortlessly transfer to Metrolink trains, opening up a plethora of travel possibilities within Southern California. The collaboration has generated excitement among Metrolink officials, who recognize the potential for attracting new passengers to their commuter rail system.

As Las Vegas visitors' primary market of origin, Los Angeles residents and tourists alike will benefit from the enhanced accessibility and convenience. The high-speed rail system is expected to be completed in 2028, in time for the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

Find more renderings of the train design, along with a route map, below. Now, if only we could get a high-speed train that connects the rest of the US. 😏

For more information and updates, visit the Brightline West website.